Graduate DSO Engineer, Electricity Distribution, Cardiff

National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is responsible for the electricity distribution systems in the Midlands, the Southwest of England, and South Wales, serving over 8 million people.

The Distribution System Operator (DSO) within NGED is crucial for enabling a smarter, more flexible, and lower-carbon energy system. It focuses on maximising existing network capacity, forecasting future demand, and developing innovative solutions to meet customer needs. Key activities include flexibility market development, network operation, and planning.

As a Graduate DSO Engineer, you will join a core DSO team to help shape the future of electricity distribution. You will gain hands-on experience in areas such as flexibility services, network planning, system operation, and network development. The role involves understanding the evolving electricity network to support net zero goals. Through project work, industry collaboration, and placements, you will build technical, analytical, and commercial skills, gaining insight into the operation of a modern DSO.

What You'll Do

• Develop flexibility services to support a smarter, more efficient electricity network and the transition to a low-carbon future.
• Analyse network, flexibility, and operational data to identify trends, assess performance, and support decision-making.
• Assess network needs and explore how flexibility services can manage constraints and maximise network capacity.
• Learn about the procurement and dispatch of flexibility services via NGED's Market Gateway platform, assisting in the development and publication of service requirements.
• Contribute to projects and industry trials exploring innovative uses of flexibility to address emerging network challenges.
• Assess the role of technologies like battery storage, electric vehicles, and heat pumps in supporting network operation.
• Support regulatory reporting and analysis, understanding the commercial, policy, and regulatory environment of electricity networks.
• Collaborate with engineering, operational, and commercial teams, as well as flexibility providers and industry partners, to develop flexibility markets.
• Utilise tools such as Excel, Power BI, and Python to generate insights and support evidence-based decision-making.

What You'll Need to Apply

• A minimum 2:2 degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, Energy Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• It is acceptable if you have already graduated or are currently studying towards your qualification.
• An interest in the future of energy, electricity networks, and the transition to net zero.
• Enjoy analysing information, solving problems, and working with data.
• Eagerness to develop understanding of network operation, planning, and flexibility services.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-evolving environment.
• A full, valid UK driving licence by 27th June 2027 (at least three months before your start date).
• If progressing to the assessment centre, you must have passed your driving theory test and be able to provide evidence.
• Flexibility to travel within the role and throughout placements.

Location

• Rumney, Cardiff, with travel across the South Wales region.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting salary of £38,472 with annual increases.
• 26 days' annual leave plus statutory holidays.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Access to flexible benefits (cycle-to-work, holiday buy/sell).
• Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
• £2,000 joining bonus.
• £2,400 payment upon successful completion of the programme.
• Accommodation allowance of up to £200 per month during placements.
• Additional annual leave and relocation support when moving between placements.
• Dedicated mentoring, regular feedback, networking, and volunteering opportunities.
• Permanent role with National Grid upon successful completion.

About the Graduate Programme

• An 18-month programme with a tailored development pathway focusing on leadership, business, and technical skills.
• In-person and virtual development sessions.
• 1:1 coaching and a mentor from a previous cohort.
• Core development programme covering impact, feedback, and presentation skills.
• Engineering pathway with technical learning modules, including working safely.
• Opportunity for Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) membership and chartership support.
• Three 6-month placements across the UK to deepen speciality knowledge and broaden business understanding.
• Return to the initial placement area at the end of the programme to start your career.

About National Grid

National Grid is the UK's critical energy infrastructure company, operating the electricity network and infrastructure that connects millions of people to energy across England and Wales.

More Information

• You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• Applications are recruited on a rolling basis and may close early once enough applications are received.
• Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
• National Grid is generally unable to offer sponsorship.
• It is the applicant's responsibility to explore avenues of working in the UK.